In a matter of weeks, the Republican convention will be coming to Minnesota. Republican delegates and candidates will take over our communities. Even worse, the lobbyists and members of the media will descend upon us like a cloud of hungry locusts consuming everything in their path.The Minneapolis-St. Paul Welcoming Committee is facilitating their stay and doing everything they can to use the convention as an opportunity for the chamber of commerce members to cash in. I can't blame them for that.
In order to welcome visitors and enable them to part with their money, the welcoming committee has established the GOParty Card. The card will give Republican delegates the opportunity to enjoy significant discounts on services and goods at participating businesses. Over 300 businesses have signed up for the privilege of giving the privileged a good deal.
I was very curious who would be flocking to serve the Republicans. Some non-surprises. The Minnesota Orchestra is offering 10% off tickets. The Mill City Museum offers $2 off admission. Restaurants range from Stella's Fish Cafe and Oyster Bar to Sawatdee Thai Restaurant to IHOP. And when you are minutes from the Mall of America, you can't help to go shopping! The GOParty card gets you deals at American Eagle Outfitters, Dressbarn, Express, QVC, Ultra Diamonds, the Red Balloon Bookshop in St. Paul, and the Lake Wobegon USA store at the MOA. Ahhh, Garrison Keillor would be spinning in his grave--wait! He's still alive!
Then there are the surprises:
- Patrick's Cabaret: Let's just say this about Patrick's Cabaret. It's a great performance space for hippy, artistic types and it has the largest pride flag in the city sticking off the top of the building. You can see the flag a mile away. It's a great landmark.
- Manny's Torta's: Shit man. I can't even go to my favorite Mexican sandwich shop without fear of encountering masses of Republicans?
Northern Sun Merchandising: OK, this is a riot. The tagline for Northern Sun is "Products for progressives since 1979." Have you seen a button, a t-shirt, a canvass bag, a bumper sticker, or a flag recently that has liberally-inclined message? Northern Sun probably sells it. They have a section on their website of gear specifically for the March on the RNC. Perhaps a Republican delegate can stop by and purchase a yard sign to support the troops.
